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In and Out.

Traveling in Maharashtra can be quite the experience .There are quite a few places within the state that the residents themselves are not aware of.

To start with, some of forts that should not be missed out while traveling the Great State include,Raigarh , This was the capital of the State's greatest Leader ,Shivaji .This was where he was crowned and the same place where he died. At 210kms south of Mumbai ,and spread out at 5.12sqkms ,the forts architecture was focused on making sure that it was easily accessible to his associates , whereas it making it impossible for his enemies.

Some of the other forts you might want to visit include, Pratapgarh, Lohagarh, Kulaba, Ajinkyatara, Ahmadnagar forts.

Home to many of the monks dating back to the 2nd BC, Maharashtra has a number of Caves, which depict amazing architecture and are even compared to the structures today.

Among them Ajanta and Ellora caves stands out, as the formation of these caves can be called as one of Maharashtra's and probably even India's greatest events which took 600 years to complete. These caves showcase an artistic collage of sculptures influenced mainly by Buddhist, Hindu and Jain culture. It is recommended that you stay at Aurangabad as there are daily services from here to these caves.

The Elephanta caves, is another masterpiece which could really add to your trip. This 7th century marvel can be visited by ferry which is conducted everyday, except Monday from The Gateway of India.

145 kms from Mumbai, Bordi Dahanu, in the Thane district, is a beach that stretches 17kms and is considered as an important place of worship by the Zoharastrians. It is known for a temple that houses their sacred fire which is said to have been kept alive for about 1000 yrs now.Along the Konkan Coast, 375 kms south of Mumbai, Ganapatipule is a spectacular beach that holds the self originated temple of Swayambhu Ganesh, which is visted by thousands every year. There are many more beaches along the coast of Maharashtra which are of historical importance; some of those are Mandwa and Kihim 12miles from Alibaug. Marve, Manori and Gorai is located about 40 kms by road from Mumbai and Tarkarli, 546 kms south of Mumbai has one of the clearest beaches you can find in India.

Off the coast, and into the mainland, you will find a number of hill stations, some which are visited by thousands of tourists a day. Among them Mahabaleshwar, which is considered as the Queen of the hill station, stands out at an altitude of 4500 feet. Apart from its beautiful landscapes, it provides tourists with a chance to experience nature at its best. Boating and fishing at Venna lake, horse riding, Golf, Polo are some of the attractions here .Mahabaleshwar is also known for its Strawberries, Jams, Leather and Tribal jewelry, which makes shopping here special. It's easy to get here by either public transport or on your own and accommodation is available in plenty.Panchgani not too far away from Mahabaleshwar, is another gorgeous hill station apart from Matheran, Amboli, Malshej Ghat and Chikhaldara Hills.